Exploring Visitorsâ Subjectivities toward Authenticity of the Suzhou UNESCO Heritage Site Using Q-Method

Abstract

This article was designed to investigate the perceived authenticity of World Heritage Site located in Suzhou, China. With a history of over 2000 years, the Classical Gardens of Suzhou was recognized as World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO for its elegant embodiment of Chinese traditional culture. A brief overview of the development of World Heritage Site and authenticity leads us into the discussion of examining the gap between the objective authenticity defined by UNESCO and the perceived authenticity identified by visitors. Through applying Q method, we analyzed and interpreted heritage tourists’ subjectivities on the perceived authenticity, integrity, protection and tourism management at Suzhou UNESCO heritage site. The findings indicated the perceived authenticity can be divided into four different clusters. By defining the clusters, some implications can be suggested to better manage Suzhou UNESCO heritage site and refine the development of heritage tourism to make Suzhou a global world heritage city.